There are no separated elements, crystallization or other problems. The sharp Zeiss 3.5/75mm Tessar lens (four elements in three groups) is in exceptionally fine condition. The slow speeds buzz along nicely and the faster ones are clean and snappy. The Compur-Rapid shutter fires well and all speeds (T,B, 1 Sec-1/500th) are appropriate. The film advance and film counter works correctly. Everything has been carefully cleaned, lubricated and adjusted. And thanks to the careful attention we’ve given it, this camera works just as it should. The chrome trim around the lens is tarnished but other than that it’s in remarkably good shape. Nearly 80 years after it was produced, this Rolleiflex is still in excellent condition. Many were used by war photographers during WWII and subsequently damaged, worn out or lost in action…

It can be difficult to find early examples in good working condition. The Understandably such an early Rolleiflex is a desirable and significant camera.

The serial number of the lens indicates that it was produced in 1937. The serial number of the lens is 2086872. The serial number of the camera we have up for auction is camera is 609715. This model was introduced by Frank & Heidecke in 1937 starting with serial number 568516 (and ended in 1939 with serial number 805,000.) Only the bottom 3.5/75mm Tessar has a bayonet mount for lens shades and accessory filters. This is the first version of the Rolleiflex Automat and it is unique in that it does not have a bayonet mounts on the top f2.8/ Heidoscop-Anastigmat lens. This is an very early example of the camera that started it all. It’s a very famous design, which just like Leica, inspired countless copies over the decades.

And even today it’s still a camera that’s often mentioned on photographic websites as an excellent way to get into medium format. It was the camera of choice by pros until the middle of the 1960’s. If you’re familiar with the Rolleiflex and Rolleicord cameras you’ll know that it’s considered a cult classic by many fans.

Straps for rolleiflex automat prewar